Cartagena beaches: Cala Flores in Cabo de Palos

Fine grey pebbles on the beach of a picturesque cove in Cabo de Palos

The area of Cala Flores was first built up substantially in the very last years of the twentieth century as Cabo de Palos began to extend towards the south-west along the coast, and the headland above the small cove which gives the area its name is now very much a holiday residential area.

The beach itself is reached by steps from Plaza Cala Flores, and is therefore not accessible for those of restricted mobility. It consists of fine grey pebbles, and the water here, as in all of Cabo de Palos, is extremely clear, making it ideal for both divers and snorkelers. Facilities are not comprehensive here, and there is also a lack of restaurant and shopping facilities within walking distance, but the shops and the marina area of Cabo de Palos are just a short drive away.

The beach is officially measured at 130 metres in length, but this is difficult to appreciate since it is interrupted by a couple of rocky outcrops.

Cala Flores is reached from the RM-12 dual carriageway by taking the exit at kilometre 13, then take the road to the left towards the centre of Cabo de Palos. Pass the petrol station and then head right at the roundabout, then take the second left to Plaza Cala Flores (see map).

Cabo de Palos lies at the eastern end of the municipality of Cartagena on the headland of the same name which juts out into the Mediterranean, and as a result the beaches and coves face south, east and north, depending on their location.

It is also at the southern end for La Manga del Mar Menor, which acts as the land barrier between the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean, and just outside the town is "kilometre 0" of La Manga.

The beaches of Cabo de Palos range from tiny coves to long stretches of golden sand, many of them dominated by the imposing lighthouse or cliffs. There is also a marina, which is bustling with life all year round as it doubles as a fishing port.

The coastline of Cabo de Palos lies on the edge of the Islas Hormigas marine park, one of the most important areas of protected coastline in Europe, teeming with marine life and hugely popular with divers, and the regional park of Calblanque.